A: The Sutter County Community Conversation is an ongoing effort to hear directly from residents about the services and priorities that matter most. Sutter County is committed to keeping our streets and neighborhoods safe and maintaining our local quality of life, regardless of actions taken at the State or Federal level.

As demands on fire protection, 911 emergency response, and other public safety services continue to grow, and as the County has made significant spending reductions to stay within its budget, this community conversation ensures that residents have a meaningful voice in shaping local priorities for the future.

A: Sutter County, like many California counties, is facing increasing wildfire risks, growing public safety needs, and aging infrastructure. A recent Special Grand Jury report found serious problems with fire protection in Sutter County, including outdated equipment, staffing shortages, and insufficient funding.

Since the publication of this Grand Jury Report, Sutter County has had to cut additional funding countywide, which impacts our ability to provide needed upgrades to equipment, fire stations, and retention and training for firefighters.

A: Yes. Because of budget cuts, the County already has far fewer sheriff’s deputies than recommended. At times, only three deputies are on patrol for 600 square miles. This affects how quickly we can respond to 911 emergency calls.

The County cannot add more deputies or firefighters, replace outdated equipment, keep fire stations open, or improve 911 response times. This affects rural areas and nearby cities. Live Oak depends on the County for fire services, and Yuba City relies on the County for mutual aid and direct safety support in some parts of the city.

A: In advance of any Board action, beginning with the 2026 budget process, Sutter County is gathering feedback from residents on the services they want prioritized. In a recently conducted community survey, your neighbors identified the following as top priorities:

• Ensuring adequate drinking water supplies
• Repairing roads
• Preventing fire and emergency medical response times from getting longer
• Maintaining fire, sheriff, and emergency medical response times
• Retaining experienced firefighters

A: We want to hear from you. For more information, or to provide input, visit:

www.sutter.gov/conversation.